Within Clearwater National Forest, Smith Ridge Trailhead operates as a US Forest Service dispersed camping area offering free overnight stays. The site provides trail access for hikers and their dogs, with opportunities to venture off established paths for backcountry camping experiences.
Campers should pack water filtration equipment, as natural sources require treatment before consumption. Bug activity varies seasonally but tends to be manageable during certain months. The location serves as a base for exploring campgrounds around Clearwater National Forest, with Dog Creek Camp located less than four miles southeast for those seeking developed facilities.
Description
Located in the southern portion of the Mallard Larkins Roadless Area, this alpine trailhead offers dispersed camping and a rustic hiking/stock trail (Trail 240) which connects to many other trails in the area, making it a great place for day hikers as well as for those seeking a longer, more strenuous backpacking/stock packing trip.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundSmith Ridge Trailhead is located in Idaho
Directions
Cross the North Fork Clearwater River then immediately turn left off the pavement onto road 700. After about a mile the road leaves the river and turns north up the Isabella drainage. After about two more miles the road turns to the left, leaving Isabella Creek. Continue up the 700 road, climbing for ten more miles to the trailhead where the road crosses Smith Ridge Creek.
Coordinates
46.9068286 N
115.67914336 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
Drive Time
- 4 hrs 1 min from Lewiston, ID
- 5 hrs 42 min from Spokane, WA
- 5 hrs 51 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 6 hrs 36 min from Missoula, MT
